The Arkansas Association of Middle Level Administrators has named Cara Sedberry of George Junior High School as Assistant Principal of the Year.
“I’m truly honored to receive this award. George is and has been an important part of my life for over 20 years, first in the classroom and now in a leadership role,” Sedberry said. “I’m grateful for the support, encouragement and collaboration of everyone who’s been part of this journey. This recognition means more to me than I can fully express!”
The award is sponsored by Lifetouch and was presented Dec. 16 to Sedberry by Dr. Megan Duncan, AAEA Executive Director; Dr. Karla Neathery, AAEA Assistant Executive Director; Molly Davis, AAMLA Board President; Dr. Jared Cleveland, Springdale Superintendent; Melissa Fink, Springdale Associate Superintendent; Shannon Tisher, Springdale Associate Superintendent; Dr. Jeff Flanigan, George Junior High School Principal; and Tammy Carmichal of Lifetouch.
The honor is presented each year to an Arkansas middle level assistant principal who’s succeeded in contributing to a positive and motivating environment for others and has been recognized as exhibiting exceptional leadership skills in the school community, according to an Arkansas Association of Educational Administrators press release.
Sedberry has served as the George Junior High School assistant principal for seven years. During this time, she’s led in transforming the school’s culture through an emphasis on collective values, clear expectations and accountability.
The assistant principal has established equity-focused initiatives, such as meaningful recognition and awards, individualized behavior supports and expanded academic opportunities to help ensure every student and staff member feels valued and capable of success.
Through family engagement efforts, including multilingual participation meetings and student-led conferences, the school has built a thriving, inclusive environment where students, parents, and community members feel empowered to lead.
Sedberry’s presence at the school is visible and intentional, whether greeting students at arrival, supporting teachers during challenging moments or leading initiatives that celebrate diversity and belonging, Flanigan said.
“By fostering trust and accountability, Sedberry helps our entire school community work together productively, encouraging students and adults alike to approach challenges with respect, empathy and collaboration," he said.
The assistant principal also fosters a culture of well-being by regularly asking for feedback from teachers and by immediately following up with educators in making changes, said teacher Sarah de Verges.
“She excels at making people feel seen and heard. She organizes fun, community-building days at least every month that let teachers and students enjoy each other,” she said. “I would put our school culture up against anyone's, and we would win. This is a direct result of the focus she puts on culture."
Sedberry said the award is a shared achievement.
“The culture we have created here at George Junior High is second to none,” she said. “Our staff as a whole are the heart of this work, and their commitment to our students and each other, along with collaboration, and behind-the-scenes efforts deserve this recognition just as much as I do. I am thankful for my George Family and humbled to receive this award.”
